Photo Mark Hutchinson Shendao Silent Films

Extinction Rebellion in Hastings & St Leonards

An Extinction Rebellion (XR) Group is rising in our local area. Seeds are being planted. Ideas and initiatives are evolving. And you too can rebel against extinction. All welcome. All inclusive: climate change affects all of us. HOT’s Zelly Restorick, an XR Rebel, writes.

Extinction Rebellion is an international movement that uses non-violent civil disobedience to achieve radical change in order to minimise the risk of human extinction and ecological collapse.

This Saturday (18 May) was XR Hastings and St Leonards’ first peaceful action: three die-ins around the town – Butler’s Gap in the Old Town, outside Priory Meadow Shopping Centre and on the pier. More actions are already being planned – plus opportunities to get together with like-minded people, preventing feelings of isolation, fear and depression – and to make a difference to our shared future.

For photos of the Extinction Rebellion die-ins, see the companion article: Dying for climate action

The 10 principles and values of Extinction Rebellion

Anyone who follows these core principles and values can take action in the name of Extinction Rebellion.

1. We have a shared vision of change
   Creating a world that is fit for generations to come.
2. We set our mission on what is necessary
   Mobilising 3.5% of the population to achieve system change – using ideas such as “Momentum-driven organising” to achieve this.
3. We need a regenerative culture
   Creating a culture which is healthy, resilient and adaptable.
4. We openly challenge ourselves and our toxic system
   Leaving our comfort zones to take action for change.
5. We value reflecting and learning
   Following a cycle of action, reflection, learning, and planning for more action. Learning from other movements and contexts as well as our own experiences.
6. We welcome everyone and every part of everyone
   Working actively to create safer and more accessible spaces.
7. We actively mitigate for power
   Breaking down hierarchies of power for more equitable participation.
8. We avoid blaming and shaming
   We live in a toxic system, but no one individual is to blame.
9. We are a non-violent network
   Using non-violent strategy and tactics as the most effective way to bring about change.
10. We are based on autonomy and decentralisation
    We collectively create the structures we need to challenge power.

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